Data Scientist Research Programmer, Entry Level

Key Skills

Java Programming, Python Programming, C++, C Programming, SQL, Apache Hadoop, Scala Programming, Machine learning techniques, Data science techniques, PyTorch, TensorFlow, MapReduce, R Programming

Job Description

RAND seeks Data Scientist Research Programmers to join the Research Programming Group (RPG). Our Programmers are a world-class resource for RAND’s researchers. As part of the RPG team, you will have the opportunity to interact with and learn from some of the best in the profession.

Data Scientist Research Programmers work in a multidisciplinary environment in support of research on a wide range of issues spanning health care, education and labor, social and economic wellbeing, national security, and military manpower. Data Scientist Research Programmers work closely with research staff in creating, managing, and analyzing large and complex data sets. Data Scientist Research Programmers are expected to acquire a basic understanding of the research topic and a thorough knowledge of the data involved while applying programming and analytic skills.

Duties

• Work as a member of research teams to identify and answer important research questions
• Acquire a strong understanding of research topics and a thorough knowledge of the data and programming efforts involved
• Answer research questions by using appropriate data analytic techniques
• Manipulate and analyze complex, high-volume, high-dimensionality data from varying sources
• Communicate findings to technical and non-technical staff

Basic Qualifications

• Expert knowledge of multiple programming languages including Python and/or R
• Experience with machine learning, artificial intelligence, and data mining
• Experience working with distributed computing tools such as Spark or Hadoop
• Experience with cloud platform providers like Amazon Web Services or Microsoft Azure
• A strong passion for empirical research and for answering hard questions using quantitative methods
• A flexible analytic approach that allows for results at varying levels of precision
• Ability to communicate complex quantitative analysis in a clear, precise, and actionable manner
• The successful candidate will be a highly motivated self-starter with the ability to solve data analysis problems independently.

Education

• BA/BS in Applied Mathematics, Statistics, Operations Research, Computer Science, Engineering, Economics, or related field required. MA/MS preferred.

Experience

• 2 years minimum related experience required, 3 or more years related experience preferred

Security Clearance

• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance is preferred.

Location

• Santa Monica, Washington D.C., Pittsburgh, Boston

Equal Opportunity Employer: race/color/religion/sex/sexual orientation/gender identity/national origin/disability/vet